Editor,

In contrast to the consistently low level of oratory emanating from Westminster, a celebration of creativity and imagination has never been more necessary.

With the pending redevelopment of the Old College there is here an opportunity to create perhaps 12 International Residencies for individuals from different countries and cultures including Welsh and the UK. These could be poets, composers, visual artists, geographers, historians or scientists.

With more than 200 rooms, this inspiring historic building will still have plenty of room for concerts, lectures, a museum and exhibitions.

The energy thus created will spill over into community and school projects.

Aberystwyth is blessed with a series of institutions - the National Library, The Old College, The Arts Centre and the School of Art - In fact a wealth of potentially linked experiences that will make this a centre for cultural tourism. The media omit any reference to Wales in the present discourse on the election or to the dreaded B word. And it is regularly excluded from being a part of the UK.

The best work, either in science or the arts, demonstrates aspirations which are higher than that of simply maximising profits. Creativity requires opportunity for concentration and freedom from distraction. Peace and space will be available for residents in the Old College. With the chain of institutions already here, Aberystwyth is an ideal centre for a hub for a national gallery to be created here.

Aberystwyth is not alone but is flanked by MOMA in Machynlleth 30 minutes away and now Canfas Gallery opened recently in Cardigan in what was Manchester House and we must not forget Borth, the home of the first artists’ colony in west Wales.

Mary Lloyd Jones, Cefn Bryn, Iorwerth Avenue, Aberystwyth.

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